Today's episode is a bit different and quite the rollercoaster. It's one of those stories you hope never to have to tell, but here we are, sharing a real-life experience that could have easily turned into an STR host's worst nightmare: our first squatter scare. Now, I know what you're thinking – "squatter" is a strong word, especially when referring to a guest who has overstayed their welcome. But when a routine check-out transforms into a lock-in situation with a guest refusing to leave, it feels nothing short of a squatting scenario. Before we dive in, I want to reassure you, especially if you're new to the short-term rental game or considering diving in, that this is not the norm. My team and I have managed tens of thousands of reservations, and this is the first time we've encountered such a stressful situation. So, take this episode as a learning opportunity, one that arms you with the knowledge to prevent, manage, and navigate through the rare but possible challenges of being an STR host. This experience was eye-opening for us in many ways.But, it's not just a story of stress and panic; it's a tale of learning, adaptation, and reinforcement of our operational protocols. So, buckle up as we walk you through the entire ordeal, step by step, and share the vital lessons learned along the way. In this episode, you’ll learn: Red Flag Recognition The complexities of managing bookings from OTAs like Booking.com The importance of having a comprehensive rental agreement Dealing with Overstayed Guests Preventive Strategies and Lessons Learned Remember, the goal here isn't to scare you but to educate and prepare you for the realities of being an STR host. By sharing our story, we hope to equip you with the knowledge and tools to protect your investment, maintain your peace of mind, and continue to provide exceptional experiences for your guests. Need help managing your short-term rental and you don’t want to go it alone? Shoot us a message here and we’ll see if we can help. Are you enjoying the podcast? Please subscribe, leave a rating and a review, and share it! This helps us reach others that may find the info helpful as well.